Door Security Plate

Introduction

In today's world, security is of utmost importance. Protecting your home or business premises from potential intruders is a top priority. One of the most effective ways to bolster your property's security is by reinforcing your doors. A crucial part of this strategy is the use of door security plates. These high-tensile steel plates, also known as Blocker Plates, are designed to protect the latch or locking mechanism on external doors, making it significantly harder for intruders to gain access. This article provides a detailed guide to understanding door security plates, their importance, types, installation, and maintenance. It also offers insights on how to choose the right door security plate based on your specific needs.

Understanding Door Security Plates

Door Security Plates, also known as Blocker Plates, are high-tensile steel plates used to protect the latch or locking mechanism on external doors. They prevent intruders from forcing the latch or lock to gain access to the building. Blocker Plates are cost-effective, easy to install, and significantly increase the protection of your door locks and latches. They can be installed discreetly on almost any external door, making them an essential part of your security mix.

Importance of Door Security Plates

A security strike plate should be part of the basic equipment of a secure house or apartment entrance door. It makes it more difficult for burglars to pry open doors. Our strike plates are universally applicable for left and right doors and are available in various shapes and colors. In combination with other security elements such as a good door cylinder, an appropriate mortise lock, a protective fitting or an escutcheon plate, you significantly increase the security of your front door.

Types of Door Security Plates

Door security plates come in various types, each serving a unique purpose. Door Mop Plates, installed at the bottom on the pull side, protect doors during cleaning activities. Door Kick Plates, common in commercial settings, are installed at the bottom on the push side to withstand heavy foot traffic. Door Stretcher Plates, typically mounted near the middle, are ideal for healthcare facilities to protect doors from stretcher or gurney traffic. Lastly, Door Armor Plates, installed on the lower half of the push side, are suitable for doors that accommodate objects like carts or rolling beds.

Latch Protectors

Latch Protectors are an integral part of door security plates, providing a physical barrier against forced entry attempts like kick-ins, door prying, and jamb spreading. They are typically made from stainless steel or cold-rolled steel, offering durability and strength. Latch Protectors are designed to protect the latch or deadbolt from physical manipulation, enhancing the overall security of your entryway. They come in various sizes to accommodate different door hardware, and their installation can be customized with spacers for a perfect fit. This low-cost solution adds an extra layer of security to your door, making it a worthwhile investment for home and business owners alike.

Lock and Key Cylinder Guards

Lock and Key Cylinder Guards, also known as Cylinder Lock Plates, are essential components of door security systems. They come in various designs and finishes, protecting the lock cylinder from being tampered with, providing an additional layer of security. Some options even include a thumb turn latch for easy operation. Whether you prefer a modern or antique aesthetic, there's a cylinder lock plate that will match your door's style while enhancing its security.

Full Length Security Plates

Full Length Security Plates, also known as Wrap Plates, provide additional armor protection to the door and latch to deter forced entry. They are designed to aid in retrofitting new hardware and repair damaged doors. These plates utilize a superior quality stainless and cold roll steel base, ensuring durability and longevity. They are fitted with threaded inserts to receive the latch and deadbolt screws. Wrap plates are packaged in clear view clam shell packaging, allowing the holes and size to be seen without opening the package.

Choosing the Right Door Security Plate

Choosing the right door security plate involves considering several factors. You might opt for a single piece like a strike plate or a comprehensive kit that replaces all core points. Reinforced strike plates spread incoming force over a larger surface area, making it harder to break off the frame. Door guards add strength around your doorknob and latch, ensuring the door stays firmly closed. The choice depends on your specific needs and the level of security you desire. Remember, these reinforcements can significantly enhance your door security without making your home look like a fortress.

Material and Design Considerations

Door security plates, also known as wrap plates, are designed to provide additional armor protection to the door and latch against forced entry. They are made from superior quality stainless and cold roll steel for durability and longevity. The wrap plates are fitted with threaded inserts to receive the latch and deadbolt screws. The highest quality finishing techniques are used to ensure a long-lasting finish. Most wrap plates are packaged in clear view clam shell packaging, allowing the holes and size to be seen without opening the package.

Compatibility with Your Door

Door security plates, or wrap plates, are designed to be compatible with various types of doors, including wood and metal doors. They work with different lock systems, such as key-in-knob lockets, deadbolts, and 86 cut out mortise locks. These plates are designed to repair, reinforce, and protect doors from forced entry, making them a crucial part of your home's security system. The plates are fitted with threaded inserts to receive the latch and deadbolt screws provided, ensuring a secure fit for your door.

Installation and Maintenance of Door Security Plates

To install a door security plate, begin by removing the old deadbolt. If necessary, enlarge the deadbolt hole using a hole saw. Clean up the hole and test-fit the new deadbolt. Attach the bolt followed by the deadbolt cylinder. Replace the lockset’s lip strike plate with a new one, using 3-in. screws. To further reinforce the doorjamb, install a new strike plate. Finally, install a heavy-duty door strike plate lock to strengthen the doorjamb. Predrill pilot holes into the wall studs to make the screws easier to drive. Set the screws snug to the plate; overdriving might bow the jamb.

DIY Installation Guide

To install a door security plate, begin by removing the old deadbolt. Measure the hole size and backset distance for the new deadbolt. If necessary, enlarge the deadbolt hole using a hole saw. Install the new deadbolt, ensuring a flush fit. Replace the lockset strike plate with a new one, using 3-in. screws. Finally, replace the deadbolt strike plate. Mark the center of the existing deadbolt hole, score the outline of the new strike plate, drill out the strike box, chisel the jamb, and install the strike box and plate.

Professional Installation: When and Why

Professional installation of door security plates is crucial for optimal security. The process involves attaching the lock not just to the door frame, but also reinforcing it by attaching it to the actual sub-structure of your home. This method uses a 16-gauge steel security plate for reinforcement. The installation also includes an understrike plate as a reinforcement to the beauty plate. This comprehensive approach ensures three layers of security where the lock meets the door frame and house, making forced entry significantly more difficult.

Maintaining Your Door Security Plate

Maintaining your door security plate is crucial for its longevity and effectiveness. Regular cleaning is essential, but avoid abrasive or chemical cleaners that can damage the protective coating. Instead, use a mild soap or detergent. Internally, lubrication is key. Use dry lubricants like Teflon, spraying a small amount into the keyway and moving your key in and out to distribute it. This should be done annually. Also, remember to maintain your keys, replacing worn ones and making duplicates from the original to ensure accuracy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, door security plates are an essential component of a robust home or business security system. They offer a cost-effective and easy-to-install solution to reinforce your doors and protect against forced entry. Whether it's a Door Mop Plate, Door Kick Plate, Door Stretcher Plate, Door Armor Plate, Latch Protector, Lock and Key Cylinder Guard, or a Full Length Security Plate, each serves a unique purpose and adds a layer of protection to your property. Choosing the right door security plate involves considering factors such as material, design, and compatibility with your door. Regular maintenance is also crucial to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. Remember, a well-secured door is a significant deterrent to potential intruders, making door security plates a worthwhile investment for every property owner.